GSM mean grams per square meter. Paper is measured by GSM. Quality of paper is determined by GSM, where quality is measured in grams per square meter of the paper.
The higher the GSM, the heavier the paper is. The buyers can know the exact quality of the paper that is being ordered.
Both, thick and thin quality papers are useful for making any product from paper. Therefore, there is no high quality paper or low quality paper. It is just a matter of thickness. Thin or soft papers are also used in many ways. Soft tissues, paper handkerchief, newspapers are especially made of thin paper.
Tissues and handkerchief are made by leaving space between. So that water is soaked. The space left makes the paper thin. GSM helps the print buyers and print suppliers to know the exact quality of paper that is being ordered.
Keeping a specific number of the GSM can make all the difference and you’re more likely to be taken seriously by a printer.
Specific GSM number can give exact quality of paper rather than just asking for thick or thin paper. It is a trend in the industry when it comes to GSM, and industry makes their own branded paper with some particular GSM. Most common GSM used in the paper industry makes their own branded paper with some particular GSM.
Most common GSM used in paper industry is; 55gsm, 90gsm, 100gsm, 120gsm, 140gsm, 210gsm, 250gsm, 300gsm, 350gsm, and 400gsm. Business cards are 350gsm and flyers are around 300-350gsm.
Paper which is used for making books magazines should have exact GSM. The quality of the paper will be the reflection of your company. Good and exact quality of paper in books makes the product branded. Less GSM of paper used for printing can give bad quality of printing. Ink can run on the paper if the paper is made by less GSM.
Standard paper weights are between 75gsm and 100gsm for common business applications; photo paper is much higher and goes up to 280gsm in weight.
Other types of paper and their GSM
Every paper has its own quality and GSM. Accurate GSM is used for a particular paper which is known for the quality of the paper.
Bond Paper
Bond paper is the paper used to maintain the records in business or documents. It is a long durable paper that is suitable for electronic printing. It is stronger than the average sheets of paper. It is made from rag pulp instead of low grade wood pulp. GSM of Bond paper is around 80gsm.
Recycled Paper
Recycled paper is used from used papers and waste cardboard. The fiber quality in the recycled paper is reduced. Therefore these papers can be used for making telephone book; office paper etc. Recycled paper is perfect to reduce environmental impact. These papers can be made thick as well as thin. Therefore, the recycled paper doesn’t have any particular GSM.
GSM of the paper is compulsory when the paper is used for maintaining documents or any notices. It is also important, to keep the paper lasts long and stay strong. High GSM of paper gives quality and is non-tearable.
